CTS Alumnus Ben Tapper (MDiv 2019) has been appointed Indianapolis’s first Chief Diversity Office by Mayor Joe Hogsett. This historic appointment is part of Mayor Hogsett’s cabinet reorganization and aligns with his efforts to prioritize equity in city leadership. Tapper will lead the city’s diversity initiatives beginning January 2023.
Tapper comes to the position with a wide array of personal and professional experience. His credentials include a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Manchester University, a Master of Public Affairs degree from Indiana University, and his Master of Divinity degree from CTS. Following graduation from seminary, he served as a Chaplain for IU Health and as the Faith Formation Coordinator for Indianapolis’s First Mennonite Church. As cofounder of the Kindred Collective, author of The Mix blog, and current host of two podcasts that dive into important issues from theological, sociological, and political lenses, Tapper keeps an ear to the ground while exploring ways to include the marginalized in abundant living. Most recently, he served as an associate for resource consulting with the Center for Congregations.
Ben shares, “I believe that part of my life’s call is to ensure that someone notices those on the margins. I myself have lived large portions of my life on the margins. I have felt lost and invisible, and suffered due to oppression that was both personal and systemic. My seminary degree from CTS helped me better understand how to use my unique gifts and life experiences to shine light on the things that others wish to ignore while calling forth the power and capability of those that have historically been sidelined by the powers that be. That’s the work that I’ll continue to do as the chief diversity and equity officer for the city of Indianapolis.”
When asked how the CTS community can support him in his new role, Tapper suggested: “One thing that people can do is check out the SAVI racial equity scorecard. It details different measurements of racial equity for Indianapolis. I would encourage people to check out that scorecard and to take note of the racial inequities that exist. Then they can commit to learn more about the issue, donate to an organization that’s addressing the issue, or get directly involved with those that are trying to solve the problem itself.”
To listen to Ben’s podcasts, visit:
